GOLF, HOCKEY, RUGBY, SQUASH
Wallabies’ assistant coaches in firing line
MICHAEL Cheika had plenty to think about on the flight home from South America.
He might have saved his job when the Wallabies got out of jail against Argentina, but it remains to be seen who he will be working with when the Wallabies jet out for their tour of the northern hemisphere.
Rugby Australia is reviewing the season before the team heads off this month and Cheika will be presenting his views to the board this week.
With the start of the World Cup less than 12 months away, the Spring Tour seems the logical time to make changes and, although Cheika is safe, there are rumblings about his assistants, defence coach Nathan Grey, attack coach Steve Larkham and forwards coach Simon Raiwalui.
Cheika is fiercely loyal to his staff but Rugby Australia might insist on changes be- cause of criticism of the team’s performances.
Before leaving Salta, Cheika flagged the idea of making some changes but he may not get the final say, with Rugby Australia looking at possibly bringing in an adviser.
Australia’s next assignment is against the All Blacks in Yokohama on October 27, then it’s Tests against Wales, Italy and England.
Cheika does know that he needs to give some of his bruised and battered players a rest because the season has taken a toll and the casualties are mounting up.
He is unsure whether Matt Toomua and Tatafu PolotaNau should play, as both are based in England.
“Whether I decide to go with them in November or not, we’ll see. Otherwise they may get a chance to have a bit of a breather,” Cheika said.
“Samu Kerevi should be back soon. He’s ideally going to play some football so he can be considered for the tour,” Cheika said.
“[Tevita] Kuridrani is due back around the time we leave for the tour. And [Curtis] Rona has been playing.”
The Wallabies will have to find another loosehead prop after Tom Robertson although Cheika was delighted with how hooker Tolu Latu and props Sekope Kepu and Allan Alaalatoa combined against the Pumas.